Organic baby skincare

Author: Kate Hanson

Newborn babies and children have delicate skin that is more
likely to suffer environmental stress like pollution, heat, cold
and sunburn. Here are a few pointers for an organic and/or
natural approach to baby skincare.

Nappy Rash

Small red spots appearing around baby's bum, groin, and legs
generally signals nappy rash. In serious cases the skin may get
inflamed or broken - not nice for baby which means not nice for
mummy and daddy either!

The usual cause of nappy rash is wet or dirty nappies breaking
down into ammonia compounds which cause bacterial skin
irritation. If you are having some nappy rash issues, try more
frequent changing with 5-10 minutes of fresh air and sunlight in
between. Definitely avoid acrylic pants and if you can go for
organic cotton nappies, do. They are heaps better for baby and
the environment.

To treat the nasty itch and soreness, try a few drops of organic
lavender oil diluted according to the instructions on the bottle
and rubbed gently onto that cute little tushy. You could also
try bod for bubs' http://www.ikigai.com.au/mother-baby/746.html">Cowboys and
Itchy Bums bum barrier cream for a ready-made blend of
essential oils and other beneficial ingredients, including
lavender.

Eczema

Eczema comes along like a side order with asthma, hayfever, and
chemical sensitivity. Unfortunately in this case you can't send
it back to the kitchen. But that doesn't mean you can't ease the
discomfort for your little one.

Eczema is abnormally dry skin with inflammation. Some older
babies get regions of inflammation with flaking or peeling of
the skin, particularly around the face and inner folds of the
elbow and knee.

Medical treatment usually involves the topical application of
steroidal creams which control the inflammation. You could also
try a soothing moisturising cream minus the chemicals. Unscented
organic or totally natural products are best because anything
perfumed or synthetic will only irritate the skin more. Try
BABYBEARSHOP's http://www.ikigai.com.au/mother-baby/611.html">Organic
Cheeky Baby Butter. So cute!

Sun Protection

Protecting baby from the sun is absolutely essential. It's
proven that there is an increased risk of developing skin
cancers in later life after early childhood exposure to ultra
violet radiation. The Cancer Council recommends regularly
checking the http://www.arpansa.gov.au/uvindex/daily/ausuvindex.htm">UV
index and becoming familiar with peak exposure periods.

When you have to take baby outside in the sun, all Australian
mothers know it is essential to protect babies and children with
appropriate sunscreen, hats, and loose fitting outfits made from
sun protective materials.

However, sunscreens are complex compounds, containing a
surprising number of chemicals in addition to their active
constituents. These can include synthetic colours and perfumes.
Try to find a natural sunscreen such as http://www.uvnatural.com/">UV Natural (although I find
this one a little greasy), or just cover bub completely with
clothing!

If you dress your wee one in organic baby clothes, for sunny
days make sure you choose loose fitting clothing made from
tightly woven natural fibres such as cotton, linen, and hemp.
Clothing made from unbleached organic fibres is tougher and less
likely to irritate immature and sensitive skin.

About the author:
Passionate about skincare and beauty, Kate was horrified when
she found out about the toxic chemicals lurking in her favourite
products. A passionate desire to educate others on how to make
safer choices led to the birth of Ikigai, the Organic & Natural
Skincare Boutique. http://ikigai.com.au/